CONFIRMATION

Baptism, the Eucharist, and the Sacrament of Confirmation together constitute

the "Sacraments of Christian Initiation," whose unity must be safeguarded.

It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace.

For "by the Sacrament of Confirmation, the baptized are more perfectly bound

to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit.

Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread

and defend the faith by word and deed."

GROWING TO FULL STATURE IN CHRIST

Who are candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation?

The baptized, who if they have the gift of reason, must be in the state of grace, properly instructed and are able to renew their baptismal promises. Candidates who have developmental disability must receive instruction according to their capacity and with the support of their family.

Adults may receive their preparation for Confirmation through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (also known as RCIA). See RCIA. Adults are encouraged to receive this sacrament before being admitted to the Sacrament of Marriage.

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What does the preparation entail?

The proximate preparation for Confirmation is a two-year process, beginning in the Fall of the eighth grade. Each year should include 25 hours of classroom instruction, as well as retreat and service.

The proximate preparation approximates the period of catechumenate in the RCIA process. This period provides opportunity to the candidates